Archive · 23 Jul 2025
Russia Passes Law to Penalize VPN Users and Track Search History
Russia is creating a new law that makes it illegal to look for certain things online.
The government is calling these things 'extremist' and has a list of over 500 websites and topics that are off-limits, like content about Alexei Navalny, the LGBTQ+ movement, and Ukraine.
If you search for these things, you could be fined.
The law also targets people who use VPNs to get around internet restrictions.
The government wants to control what people see online, and this new law is part of that plan.
Russia is implementing a new law to penalize individuals searching for 'extremist' content online.
The law was approved by the State Duma and awaits final approval to be enforced on September 1st.
It targets individuals using VPNs to bypass internet restrictions.
The Ministry of Justice has a list of over 500 pages considered extremist.
Those searching for restricted content may face fines, while those advertising VPN services could face larger fines.
- Who
- Russian government, individuals searching online, and VPN users.
- What
- New Russian law to punish VPN users and track search history for 'extremist' content.
- When
- Approved by the State Duma on July 22, expected to come into effect on September 1.
- Where
- Moscow, Russia
- Why
- To tighten internet censorship and control online content.
Critics of the Law
Government's Stance
Definition of 'Extremist' Content
Critics of the Law
The vague definition of 'extremist' content could be abused.
Government's Stance
The government defends the law as necessary to combat extremism.
- Legislation Status
- Awaiting approval from the Federation Council and President Putin.
- Expected Enactment
- September 1
- Content Definition
- Ministry of Justice list of over 500 pages deemed extremist.
- Fines (Searching)
- 3,000 to 5,000 rubles
- Fines (VPN Advertising)
- 50,000 to 500,000 rubles
- Monitoring Authority
- Law enforcement agencies will monitor users' search history.